Abstract
Brown recluse spiders are endemic to the central United States and are highly venomous. Although most brown recluse spider bites do not cause dangerous wounds or systemic symptoms, severe cases can occur. Changes in laboratory values may include hemolysis, thrombocytopenia, coagulopathy, and altered chemistry and urinalysis results. Neutrophil involvement in wound progression and white blood cell changes can be observed. If blood products are indicated, fresh frozen plasma and cryoprecipitate should be avoided. There is no single clinical lab test that can be used to diagnose a brown recluse spider bite, but laboratory involvement in monitoring progression and treatment may be significant. * ELISA : enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay; CBC : complete blood count; DAT : direct antiglobulin test; ALT : alanine transaminase; AST : aspartate aminotransferase; LDH : lactate dehydrogenase; CK : creatine kinase; DIC : disseminated intravascular coagulation; PT : prothrombin time; PTT : partial thromboplastin time; ESR : erythrocyte sedimentation rate; G6PD : glucose-6 phosphate dehydrogenase
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